In August of this year the eyes of billions around the world will be on Rio de Janeiro, as that city prepares to host the 2016 Summer Olympics.
Regardless of what event seems to capture your attention the most, there is something powerful, something moving, and at times, even a little transcendent about watching some of the greatest athletes on the planet compete.
There is struggle, tension and drama. And as cliché as it has become, the most appropriate phrase to describe the Olympic games in all their fullness is that they runs the spectrum from the “thrill of victory, to the agony of defeat.”
Is it any wonder why the Apostle Paul chose on several occasions to point to “The Games” as a running metaphor for the Christian life? We believe and proclaim that because of Christ, our journey of faith ends in victory and celebration.
This is truth.
But toward that end; on our way toward that great and ultimate victory, we must deliberately choose to get into the game (Connect); train hard (Form); and run the race (Mobilize).
Over the course of three Sundays (August 7th, 14th, and 21st) we will study the Olympic references in scripture that call us to run with perseverance the race set before us. This short series promises to be fruitful and fun! I hope you will join us.
Here is the series, at a glance…
August 7th: “Get in the Game!” (1 Corinthians 9: 24-27; Philippians 3:13-14)
August 14th: “Train Hard” (1 Timothy 4:7-8, Philippians 2:12)
August 21st: “Run YOUR Race” (Hebrews 12: 1-3; 11-12)
Shaun King
Senior Pastor
Johns Creek Baptist Church
